impinge
Definitions
To affect or encroach on something, often in a limiting or negative way.
侵犯，侵占；（负面地）影响。
To strike or collide with something physically.
撞击，碰撞（某物）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedim- (in, against) + pinge (drive, strike — from pangere) = 'drive against, strike into.' It keeps the raw physical sense of the root: one thing pushing hard into another's space. Today mostly figurative — rules impinge on your freedom, work impinges on your time. Almost always followed by 'on' or 'upon.'
Root pag still carries 6 more wordsUsage Guide
Nearly always intransitive with 'on/upon': impinge on rights, impinge upon time. You don't 'impinge something' directly. The figurative sense (encroach, limit) is far more common than the physical one (strike against), which is mostly technical.
Example Sentences
- 1.
New regulations should not impinge on personal freedom.
- 2.
Work increasingly impinges upon her family time.
- 3.
Light impinging on the sensor triggers the alarm.